Tom,
I've pasted in an article from the Wall Street Journal Online on this subject. I would have attached a link but it requires a subscription. Hope they don't mind.
<font color="blue"> [September 30, 2004
The Fall Buyer's Guide: Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a PC
By WALTER S. MOSSBERG
It's time for my annual fall buyer's guide to desktop computers, and this year, security is a paramount issue, especially if you're buying a Windows machine. More than ever, Windows buyers need to make sure that they equip their new machines with an array of tools to fend off attacks and malicious software.
As always, my advice is aimed at mainstream users doing common tasks such as word processing, Web surfing, e-mail, personal finance, simple home photo and video editing, digital music and basic games. Hard-core gamers or folks doing massive video production need bigger, faster computers than those specified here.
You should be able to get a bare-bones, name-brand Windows computer for $400 to $600, without monitor. Windows models with more features start at $600 to $700. Media Center models, with built-in TVs, are usually $1,000 and up. Apple's Macintosh models start at $799, but the new, powerful iMac G5, with a built-in flat panel screen, starts at $1,299.
Windows or Mac: Most buyers will go with Windows PCs. But Apple's new iMac models are an excellent choice. Not only are they beautifully designed, but they also use a powerful processor called the G5, and their prices are actually lower than those for comparable Windows machines. Best of all, users of the current Mac operating system haven't encountered any viruses.
The main downside of the Mac is that it requires buyers to acquire and master all new software. Much of this comes bundled on the computer, but most people will have to spend at least $150 for a Mac version of Microsoft Office, which can handle files created in the Windows version.
If you choose Windows, make sure you wait for a machine that has the new SP2 version of Windows XP, which closes some of the operating system's most egregious security holes.
Security: Even on a brand-new Windows machine, you should immediately obtain an arsenal of security programs, and keep them updated. One recent test showed that a brand-new, unprotected Windows machine became infected with viruses in just 20 minutes on the Internet.
You should have a firewall, an antivirus program, an antispyware program and an antispam program. The built-in Windows firewall and Windows' new Security Center aren't enough to protect you. Most PCs come with a trial version of antivirus software, but pay for the full version when the trial ends. For a full list of my recommendations for Windows security add-ons, see:
http://ptech.wsj.com/archive/ptech-20040916.html.
Most of this isn't needed on a Mac, but Mac buyers may want to get an antivirus program, because the Mac isn't invulnerable.
Memory: Memory, or RAM, is the most important factor in computer performance. You can get by with 256 megabytes, but I suggest 512 MB. Ask whether the PC's main memory is shared with the video system. If the memory is shared, you should buy extra.
Hard disk: A 40-gigabyte hard disk is the minimum these days, but you can get up to 160 gigabytes in midrange models. Top models now have at least 200 GB.
Processor: For mainstream computing tasks, the slowest processor on the shelf will usually be enough. On Windows machines, Intel processors with model numbers in the 500s will do fine. AMD processors are just as good. On Apple desktops, I recommend a G5 processor.
Digital connectors: Buy a computer with several USB 2.0 connectors, including at least one on the front of the computer or in the keyboard or monitor. If you have a video camera that can't use USB, you'll need an extra high-speed port called 1394, or FireWire.
Memory-card slots: Try for a model with built-in slots that accept the various types of memory cards used by digital cameras, PDAs and music players.
High-speed Internet: Get a built-in Ethernet networking connection, necessary for high-speed Internet connections via cable modems and DSL lines.
Video system: Cheaper PCs use something called "integrated video." But the best route is to invest in a PC with a separate video card and dedicated video memory. Try for at least 64 megabytes of video memory.
Audio system: If you're a music fan, spend extra for a subwoofer and good speakers.
Monitor: Flat-panel screens are best for most uses. The 15-inch flat panels now cost less than $300. Many 17-inch models can be had for $400 or less, and 19-inch models start below $600.
Mass storage: Look for a CD-RW drive that lets you record your own CDs for playing music or for backing up or exchanging files. If you do a lot of home video or photos, you may want to invest in a DVD recording drive.
Media Centers: A Windows Media Center PC has a built-in TV and uses a special version of Windows XP that can be operated with a remote control from across the room to play music and videos, view photos and watch TV. This fall, some cheaper Media Center models will be sold without TVs, but with remote-control capability.
Brands: All Windows desktops are similar, but unless you're a techie, stick with names like Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Sony, Gateway and eMachines. Apple is the only brand on the Mac side.
It's fine to buy at a retail store, but it's easier to customize a model -- and sometimes get better prices -- on the Web, where most manufacturers let you buy directly.
Write to Walter S. Mossberg at
mossberg@wsj.com]
